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Aravan: Unveiling Ancient Wonders and Natural Delights in Southern Kyrgyzstan
Explore Caves, Petroglyphs, and the Unique White Figs of the Osh Region
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Explore Caves, Petroglyphs, and the Unique White Figs of the Osh Region
Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of ancient history, natural marvels like mysterious caves and ancient rock art, and the rare white figs of Aravan in the Osh region of Kyrgyzstan.
In the south of Kyrgyzstan, within the Osh region, lies the ancient village of Aravan. This is a place where history intertwines with natural wonders, and ancient traditions come to life in every corner. Here, you can delve into the world of enigmatic caves, marvel at the rock carvings of ancient horse breeders, and taste the rare white fig. The incredible variety of fruits found here – including persimmon, pomegranate, almond, and grapes – is unmatched elsewhere in the region.
Aravan boasts a rich history that stretches back centuries. According to one version, the village's name originates from ancient tribes who inhabited these lands and means "meeting place." Archaeological findings, including ancient petroglyphs, indicate that skilled artisans and pastoralists once resided here, and the area itself was an important trade and cultural hub.
A special place in the region's history is occupied by the ancient state of Davan, which existed from the 3rd century BCE and encompassed the central and eastern parts of the Fergana Valley. Davan was renowned for its highly developed crafts and, especially, its horse breeding. Local inhabitants raised thoroughbred horses known as "heavenly horses." These steeds were distinguished by their incredible endurance and strength, and their "blood sweat" lent them a mystical aura. Chinese emperors highly valued these horses and were willing to wage wars for the right to possess them. Thus, in 104 BCE, Emperor Wu-di sent a 60,000-strong army to Davan with the aim of acquiring these legendary steeds.
Aravan is rich in unique natural and historical sites that are worth a visit for every traveler.
Located 3.5 km from the village of Aravan, in a mountain massif, lies the Chil-Ustun Cave. Its majestic entrance, an arch about 15 meters high, is situated on a steep cliff at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level. Inside the cave are three halls connected by corridors, with a total length of about 400 meters. The vaults are adorned with ancient stalactites and stalagmites, and Arabic inscriptions have been preserved on the walls, testifying to the long history of this place. Unfortunately, along with the ancient inscriptions, traces of modern visitors also remain. Visiting the cave requires a certain level of physical fitness and caving equipment. It is recommended to use the services of professional speleotourism companies for cave exploration.
The shrine is located at the foot of the Duldul-Ata mountain, which locals sometimes call "hospital mountain" due to its proximity to a hospital, though this may not be coincidental. The name "Duldul-Ata" is associated with the legendary white horse Duldul, belonging to the Prophet Hazrat Ali. According to legend, the prophet descended here to battle a black Dev (demon) residing in the Chil-Ustun cave. This horse possessed incredible strength and could cover vast distances in a single leap, saving its rider from dangers, and the mountain itself served as its tethering post. Near Shahimardan, depressions in the rocks are still shown, which, according to local beliefs, are the hoofprints of Duldul. At the foot of the cliff is a spring, next to which is a mosque and a place revered as the tomb of the holy Duldul-Ata.
Above the spring itself, at a height of about 15-16 meters from the base of the cliff, are depictions of horses almost life-size, executed with astonishing accuracy and grace. The outlines of the figures are scratched into the stone and painted with ochre, which has retained its color for millennia. In 1939, the archaeologist and orientalist M.E. Mason, after studying the images, dated them to the first millennium BCE, which coincides with the flourishing of the Davan state and its legendary "heavenly horses."
Aravan is known not only for its historical monuments but also for its unique white figs. Thanks to the special microclimate and fertile soils, this rare variety of fig reaches perfect sweetness and a tender texture here. It differs from ordinary figs with its thinner skin, honeyed taste, and softness.
The cultivation of white figs is a tradition passed down through families for generations. The fruits are harvested by hand, following ancient cultivation methods, which makes them particularly valuable. Figs from Aravan are exported to other regions and are usually sold individually rather than by weight. You can only taste these figs fresh from the tree here, in the very heart of the valley.
Aravan is located at an altitude of about 700 meters (2,297 feet) above sea level. The climate here is continental: summers reach up to +35°C (95°F), while winters only drop to around freezing, creating mild weather conditions. The best times to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when nature is particularly beautiful and the weather is comfortable for travel.
The village of Aravan is located approximately 30 km (19 miles) west of Osh. You can reach it by car or shared taxi, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. The road surface is good, making the trip comfortable.
Since the village is located near the city of Osh, there are practically no hotels or guesthouses within Aravan itself. However, there are cafes and teahouses in the vicinity where you can sample traditional Eastern cuisine.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May), Autumn (September-October)
Location
Osh Region, ~30 km west of Osh
Altitude
~700 meters (2,297 feet)
Transportation
Car, shared taxis from Osh
Key Attractions
Chil-Ustun Cave, Duldul-Ata Shrine, Petroglyphs of "Heavenly Horses," White Figs
Cuisine Highlight
Fresh white figs, traditional Kyrgyz and Uzbek dishes
Accommodation
Limited in Aravan itself; more options in nearby Osh
